How To Play Linebacker In The 4-3 Defense

The position of linebacker of was invented and introduced to college football in the early 1900’s by Michigan Head Coach Fielding H. Yost. (1901-1923 1925-1926)

Since the positions introduction back then, the role of linebacker has taken on many names and duties in the game of football.

In this article we will focus on the role of linebacker in the 4-3 Defense and identify the different names for the different linebacker positions.

Types of Linebackers:
1.Outside Linebackers
a.Strong side or Sam Linebacker
b.Weak side or Will Linebacker

2.Middle Linebacker or Mike

Role of Outside Linebackers:
1.The Sam is usually lined up opposite the tight end or which ever side has the most players. The Sam Backer must be strong and quick. Often he is called upon to tackle the running back after fighting off the block from the tight end. His strength is important in fighting off blocks from tight ends and running back when blitzing on pass plays. He must be able to play like a safety and be able to cover the tight end in passing situations as well as quick enough to drop back in zone coverages.

2.The Will Linebacker must be the fastest of the linebackers. The main function of this position is pass protection. The weak side linebacker lines up wide and at the same depth as the Mike. Frequently the weak side backer covers the back coming out of the back field in man on man coverage but must the reads and be fast enough to drop back and cover the weak flat or hook/curl areas in zone coverage.

3 The Mike is the quarterback of the defense. In the 4-3 Defense he must be a jack of all trades yet he must be the skilled and pivotal of the three linebackers. The Mike must be quick enough to cover the ground between the tackles. He must be able to spy the quarterback and be able to drop back and protect the middle of the field on pass pass protection.

In conclusion linebackers are the heart and soul of the 4-3 defense. They must be able to pick up reads quickly be quick and strong. The middle linebacker is the quarterback of the defense and as he goes so goes the defense.

There are excellent coaching videos for the 4-3 Defense and for the linebacker in the 4-3. Use the links below to see our listings.

4-3 Defense Coaching DVDs

Linebacker Play In The 4-3 and 50 Defense